Fascinating Lichens of Sri Lanka

I chose to use close-up photos that depict the most visible characteristics of
the lichen to identify them in the field. It is important to read the text below
to get a sense of the traits which can be used in the field and confirming the
identification in a lab when necessary. It is advised to look at the lichen closely
with a hand lens (10x magnification). The most common substrates and habitats
of the species included in this book are listed according to my current field
experience. Your best bet is to find the species, will be under similar climatic
and habitat conditions. However, be mindful that this is not exclusively so. Some
species have very narrow or specific needs while others can vary widely.
Species
In trying to understand and appreciate the biological diversity of Sri Lanka,
especially in the face of human impact on the environment, it is essential not
to overlook any significant part of the country’s biodiversity. This unfortunately
has been the case with lower plants and fungi, including lichens. Thus, in this
book, the fascinating world of lichen biology is briefly introduced, covering not
only what lichens look like but also where they are found and what economic
and ecological importance they have. In the diversity of their colours and
habitats, lichens are a fascinating and important part of nature. By observing life
around us, we become better and more responsible keepers of the sustainable
systems upon which we depend. For those who want to observe nature in their
childhood, the world can become a wonderful place to cultivate a lifelong love
of nature. I hope this preliminary treatment will inspire casual nature lovers;
especially the next generation of students and young naturalists to advance the
knowledge of these fascinating organisms.
Illustrations
Common name
Scientific name
Description
Status
Habitat
Locations
Family
name
Family
colour
code
Common Name
Genus
Order
Family
Number
of species
recorded in the
world up to
2014
Description
Genus
Record Status
E Endemic, SL new record for Sri Lanka,
IC New record to Indian subcontinent
and for Sri Lanka
E SL IC
Distributation Status
VC Very Common, C Common, R Rare,
VR Very Rare, DD Data Deficient
VC C R VR DD
Cladoniaceae
Coccocarpiaceae
Coenogoniaceae
Collemataceae
Graphidaceae
Pannariaceae
Parmeliaceae
Physciaceae
Ramalinaceae
Roccellaceae
Colour
Code
Lichens Type
Cr Crustose, Fr Fruticose, Fo Foliose
Lecanoraceae
Megalosporaceae
Sphaerophoraceae
Stereocaulaceae
Cr Fr Fo
Lobariaceae
Usneaceae
42 Fascinating Lichens of Sri Lanka
Fascinating Lichens of Sri Lanka 43